South Africa coach Gordon Igesund has named his 23-man squad for the African Nations Championship, with notably no Orlando Pirates in the mix.

Bafana Bafana skipper Itumeleng Khune will lead the nation once again, while Bidvest Wits goalkeeper Moeneeb Josephs has earned a recall for the event, taking place on home soil from January 11 to February 1.

Platinum Stars captain Vuyo Mere, who has 10 caps, is also back in the fold following his starring displays for the MTN8 and Telkom Knockout holders.

The right-back's Dikwena teammates Siyabonga Mpontshane, Lindokuhle Mbatha and Tsepo Gumede will likewise be eager to make an impact on the international stage.

Mamelodi Sundowns have contributed heavily to the cause in the shape of Tebogo Langerman, Jabu Shongwe, Hlompho Kekana, Katlego Mashego, Bryce Moon and Edward Manqele, with the latter currently on loan at Moroka Swallows.

Besides Khune, Premiership champions Chiefs have also made Bafana regulars Tsepo Masilela, Reneilwe Letsholonyane, Siphiwe Tshabalala and Bernard Parker available for the competition, as well as in-form centre-back Tefu Mashamaite.

Pirates, who boast local stars such as Thabo Matlaba, Oupa Manyisa and Kermit Erasmus on their books, have chosen not to release their players, as is their right as the tournament falls outside of the Fifa calendar.

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